A historic day
On this historic day when the first Black President of the United States of America is sworn in, two local residents tell us what the inauguration of Barack Obama means to them.
“I’m excited to see what Obama’s ground breaking Presidency will bring the millions of Americans who are suffering in the current economic turmoil. His Presidency also opens up a great opportunity for Britain and the rest of Europe to work together to build peace in the Middle East, an ambitious programme to tackle climate change and will provide impetuous to meet the UN Development Goals.”
- Anne Fairweather (left with Chuka), Streatham resident and Labour candidate in London for the European elections this JuneÂ
“It dawned on me that Obama’s election is not just about the election of the first African American president of the United States, it also means that we - the black community - are fast running out of reasons to remain at the periphery of human progress. He has shown that racism alone is no longer the reason we should not aspire and make progress.”
- Bethel Anele, Streatham resident and Obama for America campaign volunteer (Florida, 2008)
“Barack Obama has shown us that politics can genuinely work to make the world better. In the face of despondency and apathy he has reminded us that every individual can have their own unique impact on their community, their city, their country and the world. To me, Obama represents hope, wisdom, strength and the dawn of a brighter future.”
- Alice Deville, Streatham resident
You can catch Chuka between 11am and 12pm today on the BBC News Channel’s Inauguration Special. Also, check out Polly Toynbee’s Guardian column today on the inauguration and its implications for British politics which features Chuka: “We will all remember where we were today – even in lazily cynical Britain”, Polly Toynbee.
